"He is one of the most amazing young men I have seen come through Mesquite in a very long time," said Principal Shirley Kennedy. "He's mature. He's responsible. He's goal oriented. He's pleasant. He's our go-to guy. If we need something, or if I need help, Charles is always willing to help. He's truly deserving of this scholarship."

Reading from Sarrett's application, Cogan said not only is Sarrett graduating a few months early, he is taking classes at Cerro Coso Community College and taking business classes so he can open his own music store.

"He is actively involved in school activities and is also a teacher's assistant at Las Flores Elementary School or 1½ hours a day," Cogan said.

He said Sarrett's goal is to pursue a degree as a musician and open his own music store.